Pompeii Archaeological Methods

The Pompeian excavations of both the 19th and 20th centuries offer different archaeological methods and techniques that were used to uncover information regarding Pompeii. Francesco La Vega and Karl Webber were amongst the first people who set up the foundations for archaeologists to come including Giuseppe Fiorelli and Vittorio Spinazzol. Both the 19th and 20th century archaeologists have used diverse methodologies which all have left an imprint into Pompeian knowledge and history.

In 1860, Giuseppe Fiorelli was the Inspector of Excavations at Pompeii. Instead of excavating areas in no order, he decided to excavate in an organised and scientific manner by using detailed maps and would record each new finding for later analysis. Fiorelli was

Spinazzola immediately started with the excavation of the Street of Abundance that ran from the west to east side of Pompeii. With the assistance of photography, the stages of excavations were recorded which aided conservators who were repairing damage done to Pompeii including theft, vandalism and earthquakes. All of his published work and photographs are still good sources and references that are used in modern times. Spinazzola had contributed to our understanding of Pompeii by protecting any source which was excavated. In addition, he devised a method to support the collapsing of ancient walls. He also ensured that all the artefacts that were found during excavation are kept in its original position but making sure they were properly conserved. Therefore, the roles and methods of Vittorio Spinazzola have contributed to our understanding of the people of

This new method has been applied to many types of body casts found around Pompeii which have been identified and analysed by archaeologists and scientists. This resin method allows for bones and any objects on or beside the body to be seen. With the introduction of the resin to be applied to bodies, it has provided outstanding success. It has allowed for better restoration, study and maintenance of the skeletons. From these bones and casts, historians can deduce sex, health and causes of death. Therefore, the roles and methods of Estelle Lazer have contributed to our understanding of the people of Pompeii.

In conclusion, Pompeii still has unexcavated areas which modern day experts are debating to keep not excavate anymore, and instead leave it for future archaeologists with more advanced technologies than current times. Since the introduction of archaeology in Pompeii in the 19th and 20th century, the city that was uncovered and full of mysteries is now coming back to